Victorian Patchwork Patterns

Patchwork patterns were as popular during the Victorian era as they are
today. Most people think of quilts when speaking about patchwork, but during the Victorian era, it was very popular to make tidies,
mats, sofa pillows, afghans, bedspreads, etc., of small pieces of silk
and satin using this type of needlework.

It was recommended to Victorian ladies to use what was called “waste” embroidery silk which was pieces of silk thread too short for most sewing or embroidery projects. A lady could use her own pieces but could easily and inexpensively purchased it. It was sold as mixed colors in short lengths. By doing so, it was the best and most economical use of embroidery silk.

Below is from The Dictionary of Needlework: An Encyclopedia of Artistic, Plain and Fancy Needlework. 1887, by S.F.A. Caulfeild and Blanche
C. Saward 1887. It has been edited for use on this site.

Please note, if you care to use any of these
patterns and instructions found here on Victorian Embroidery and Crafts, you may find you have to substitute items that are no longer
available for purchase.

Where Did the Patterns Originate?

Patchwork Patterns can be made from geometrical figures, and are chiefly copied from old Mosaic or Parqueterie designs; however, the designs
can be made as elaborate as the worker likes, and they have been
carried to the extent of working coats of arms in their natural colours,
and pictures contain large-sized
figures.

One of these works of art was exhibited lately, and was
remarkable, both for the patience and skill displayed in its execution,
and the beauty of the colours employed. The following patterns
are amongst the best, and can be enlarged or decreased in size, as
required.